PLANS for a controversial housing development have been approved by city council planners despite concern by neighbours over the loss of trees.
Orchard Homes applied to Winchester City Council for permission to replace the house at Wray How, 30 Downside Road, Teg Down, with three two-storey houses.
The planning committee approved the application unanimously on Wednesday, July 17.
Objecting to the plans, Claire Cook, of Downside Road, said neighbouring properties would lose their privacy if the plan was permitted.
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She also raised concerns about biodiversity, saying: “On behalf of more than 80 local objectors, we are opposed to the proposal for the following reasons: biodiversity and environment.
“This proposal disregards policies NPPF 136 and CP16 and local neighbourhood design settlements, with the felling of 32 trees and planting 21 young trees on the site and seven beyond its boundary. Trees define this area and are a vital feature for the whole community.
“Trees should be retained wherever possible, especially mature trees. With this proposal, we fear this is not possible. We also fear for the future of trees and hedging given the unlawful tree felling pre-planning, the radical site clearing, large scale excavation needed and extensive use of glyphosate proposed on this site and other negative effects on the environment.”
Cllr Kelsie Learney also spoke in objection, saying: “I am here to support the many residents who have objected to this application due to the desire to protect the character of the area, its ecology and biodiversity.
“It is important to reflect on the character of Downside, which, in common with Dean Lane and other side streets, consists of large leafy trees with homes concealed by hedges and significant trees. The road is well-used by pedestrians - it is not a quiet backroad.
“The design statement is strong on the retention and enhancement of biodiverse areas and the retention of existing building lines. This application brings the building line forward, making the large house proposed very prominent.”
Alex King, speaking for the applicant, said that the application had gone through multiple variations, with the developer working with city council officers to make sure it was suitable.
He said: “We believe the design is sympathetic to the area.
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“It is disappointing that there have been so many objections to the scheme, and we would like to deliver a scheme that is being supported.”
Cllr Jane Rutter said that she would support the application as long as permitted development rights were removed.
Cllr Jonathan Williams said: “I am quite disappointed in response to hitting minimum requirements in regards to biodiversity and parking. I believe that the developers should aspire to meeting the highest possible standards. I understand the needs for some removal of trees and hedge rows.
“I am minded to support the application. I think condition 7, if strictly adhered to, would carry this through.”
The application was approved unanimously. Permitted development rights were removed which means any future plans must go to the council.
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